Chapter 28: The Hidden Vestige

"We've arrived," Anna announced, bringing the car to a stop as we reached the school. The night enveloped us, illuminated by the soft glow of the moon.

"Good work, everyone. Next week will be the graduation test, so I hope you're all prepared," Sarah reminded us with her usual determination in her voice.

"To be honest, can a 3-star mage even fail a test like this? It seems unlikely that any of you will have trouble with it. It almost feels like this team is bullying the others, with three 3-star mages on board," I commented bluntly. Though my words may have sounded harsh, I firmly believed that our team was destined for success.

Sarah and Anna exchanged restless glances, their expressions hinting at a decision they had reached in that moment.

"William, there's something we've been keeping from you," Sarah began, revealing that a secret involving me was about to be unveiled.

I had anticipated that there was more to my inclusion in their team than mere pity for a supposed cripple like me. However, considering Sarah's status, it seemed highly unlikely that romantic feelings were the driving force behind her decision.

Curiosity swelled within me as I eagerly awaited the truth. Why had she chosen me as her team member?

Silence hung in the air as they prepared to disclose the hidden secret.

"As you know, due to personal reasons, I am unable to cast any spells, despite being a mage. This issue has plagued me since I was young, and even with my family's help, I couldn't resolve it," Sarah revealed, catching me off guard with her revelation.

She had chosen to lead a peaceful and quiet life in this city, even though her inability to cast spells didn't impede her progress as a mage. She persevered, using magic items and continuing her training.

Beneath her gentle smile, there was a tenacious spirit that refused to give up. She hadn't abandoned all hope of finding a cure for her condition.

They say that those who persist are often rewarded.

After years of searching, Sarah had finally found hope. And remarkably, that hope was within close proximity, as if it had been waiting for her arrival.

Her story triggered a thought in my mind. "You don't mean...?"

"Yes, there is a hidden vestige inside the Thousand Trees Forest that can help me, and we need your help to obtain it," Sarah explained, leaving me dumbfounded.

Hidden vestiges, unlike the controlled ones overseen by the central government, remained concealed from authorities. Discovered by chance, they were kept secret by those who found them. These vestiges were typically smaller in size and often contained limited resources, leading to their abandonment and subsequent secrecy.

"I see. But you still haven't explained why you chose me," I interjected, emphasizing the significance of this crucial detail. There were surely others more qualified than me. It puzzled me why, in the end, she had chosen me. Could it be that she had developed feelings for me?

"Of course, I will tell you. A few months ago, Thomas and my other colleagues stumbled upon information about a hidden vestige within the Thousand Trees Forest. Initially, I didn't pay much attention to it, as I had no intention of exploring it. However, new information reached me, sparking excitement within me. I discovered that the solution to my problem lies within that vestige," Sarah explained, a glimmer of hope adorning her face.

Life truly is full of surprises. Sarah had arrived seeking a peaceful and quiet existence, but unexpectedly, the answer she had been searching for had presented itself, igniting a newfound hope within her.

After a momentary pause, Sarah resumed her narrative. "As you know, hidden vestiges like this often come with rules. Anyone wishing to enter must abide by these rules, willingly or not, and this hidden vestige is no exception."

It's true. Based on what the official documents have stated, hidden vestiges are categorized as special areas for various reasons, and one of those reasons is the unique rules each vestige dictates. Some don't allow high-tier mages to enter, while others only allow specific elemental users to enter.

"That's where you come in because within this hidden vestige, there is only one rule: no magic is allowed," Sarah continued.

I processed her words, trying to grasp the significance of this rule. It meant that inside the hidden vestige, all mages, regardless of their prowess, would be on equal footing. My lack of magic abilities suddenly became an asset rather than a liability.

Sarah and Anna needed someone who could navigate the vestige without relying on magic, and that's why they had chosen me. It wasn't about my qualifications as a mage but rather my unique situation.

A mix of emotions surged within me—surprise, excitement, and a sense of purpose. I had been given an opportunity to contribute to the team in a way that no one else could.

"I understand," I finally replied. "I'll do everything I can to assist you in obtaining the hidden vestige within the Thousand Trees Forest." With everything she has done for me, this is the least I can do to help her.

Sarah smiled warmly, her eyes reflecting gratitude.